The
Great Smoky
Mountains Railroad gives passengers a chance to recapture the thrills and
romance of early trains with its excursions through the mountain countryside.
Steam and diesel locomotives pull authentic passenger cars on half-day
excursions through the mountains and valleys of Western North Carolina. With 53
miles of track, 2 tunnels and 25 bridges, the Great Smoky Mountains
Railroad offers a variety of excursions that explore the amazing
landscape of the mountains.
There are open cars, coaches and club cars to choose from, as well as a popular
weekly dinner train. Excursions leave from a number of sites: Dillsboro, Bryson
City and Andrews. The trains run on passenger schedules for half-day round
trips. Passengers ride in comfortable, reconditioned coaches, crown coaches,
club cars, cabooses and even open cars. The club cars and dining cars have
historic pasts and have been lovingly restored, as have the cabooses.
A full excursion schedule is offered, including summer season
“Raft and Rail” trips that combine a train ride and whitewater
rafting experience into one package, Gourmet Dinner Trains, and many
other special events. The Caboose is
available for group rental.

Website: Great Smoky
Mountains RailroadLocation: Departures from
Dillsboro,
Bryson City and
Andrews NC Distance: 1-3 hours depending upon departure pointAddress: 1 Front St., Dillsboro NC
28752 Telephone: 800-872-4681, 828-586-8811Hours: March-December, times vary. Fees: Adult and child rates. Prices vary depending on season
and excursion.Allow: 3½ to 4½ hours round trip.Tips: Very popular attraction. Make reservations well in
advance if you wish to go during the leaf season. Reservations
suggested at all times. Nearby: Cherokee Indian
ReservationDirections: From Asheville to Dillsboro (closest departure
point), take I-40 West to Exit 27. Take 19/23 Hwy. 74 West
to Exit 81 (Dillsboro). Go to first red light and turn left on Haywood Street.
Proceed to post office and turn right onto Depot Street.